Background

In the classical dyeing of textile fibres and textiles, dyestuff is applied to the fibre surface. Therefore, a high level of energy and chemicals are required to fix the dyestuff onto the fibre surface. In the environmentally friendly dyeing process, dyeing takes place directly during the spinning process of the fibre. Thereby, the dyestuff is not applied onto the fibre’s surface, but the fibre is dyed through. As a result, this dyeing process claims to longer protected the colour in the fibre and increase many properties like colour fastness. Compared to the classic dyeing process, this dyeing claims to realize a reduction of CO2 emissions, water usage, and energy consumption.

Testing

In this project, PFI’s laboratory developed in-house testing methods analysing whether fibres are imbued and how long the colour is kept within the fibre. Additional tests included colour fastness to light, washing and their UV reflection.

Certification

PFI then developed a customer specific certification scheme, which confirms that these specific fibres and materials can keep the colour for an increased amount of time and that improved quality characteristics are met.

Manufacturers of finished goods who meet the audit, testing and traceability requirements can then obtain this certification for the products they sell to brands and end-consumers.